Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these show-stopping snacks:
For the Eggplant Shells
- 1 small eggplant, sliced into ultra-thin rounds
- Salt, to draw out moisture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Neutral oil for shallow frying
For the Spicy Yuzu Mayo
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp yuzu juice or a mix of lemon and orange
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili crisp
- A pinch of salt
For the Miso Slaw
- 1 cup finely shredded cabbage (purple or napa)
- 1 tsp white miso paste
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp honey
- A pinch of grated ginger
Optional Garnish
- Black sesame seeds
- Microgreens or shiso leaves
Instructions
With a deliciously crispy golden crust and a creamy center, follow these steps to create your macarons:
- Step 1: Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Step 2: Coat each eggplant slice in flour first, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 3: Heat neutral oil in a pan for shallow frying. Fry the coated eggplant slices until crisp and golden on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels.
- Step 4: In a bowl, mix all the spicy yuzu mayo ingredients until smooth and spicy.
- Step 5: For the slaw, toss all the ingredients together and let them marinate for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
- Step 6: To assemble, spread or pipe yuzu mayo on one eggplant round, add a pinch of miso slaw on top, and sandwich with a second round.
- Step 7: Garnish with black sesame seeds or microgreens if desired. Serve warm and crisp.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the eggplant in advance?
Yes, you can salt and coat the eggplant slices in advance, then fry them just before serving for maximum crispiness.
2. Can I substitute the eggplant with another vegetable?
While eggplant is ideal here, zucchini or even thinly sliced sweet potatoes can be tasty alternatives.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover assembled macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
4. Can I make the spicy mayo without yuzu?
Absolutely! You can use a lemon-orange mix or another citrus juice for a similar tangy flavor.
5. How spicy is the sriracha? Can I adjust it?
Sriracha offers a mild to medium heat. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences, or swap for a milder condiment.
Conclusion
Crispy Eggplant Katsu Macarons with Spicy Yuzu Mayo & Miso Slaw are a journey into innovative cuisine that merges textures and flavors beautifully. With their stunning appearance and savory profile, they showcase the versatility of eggplant and the boldness of Japanese culinary influences. Embrace the culinary challenge and enjoy these delightful nuggets of flavor. Serve them at your next gathering for an unforgettable appetizer that is bound to leave a lasting impression.
